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We have the first hints of what Quest v72 update might bring

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We have the first hints of what Quest v72 update might bring
Image: Meta
logoUPDATE

November 20:

Added more findings.

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The PTC version of Quest update v72 provides a preview of the features and improvements that may be included in the next update.

FINDINGS

Update v71 was one of the biggest in recent years. But even though the update has not been fully rolled out yet, Meta is already testing the next update.

The v72 update beta is currently rolling out to Public Test Channel (PTC) participants, and VR enthusiast Luna has been mining the update for strings that point to new features and improvements.

As always, keep in mind that features that appear in PTC updates do not necessarily make it into the official update, and may be delayed or canned. The official update may also include features that are not included in the PTC build.

Live captions

According to Luna, the PTC update adds and updates code strings that indicate improvements for live captions. The corresponding string reads:

"Spoken content will be transcribed on headset. This enhances privacy, improves speed and makes live captions and dictation available for end-to-end-encrypted apps. This setting requires a 150 MB download to your headset."

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Meta Quest VP Mark Rabkin wrote a few days ago on X that live captions are "coming soon". This feature would not only be of great benefit to people with hearing impairments.

Virtual selfie cam

A string indicates that Meta is working on a system-wide selfie camera. Luna speculates that this is intended for avatar calls. Imagine video calling your friends on Messenger while hanging out as an avatar in your Horizon Home.

App folder for PC VR apps

The PTC update introduces a new folder in the app library specifically for PC VR apps that are displayed when the headset is using Quest Link.

It should be noted that the PC app recently received a major update. So this change may be part of a larger plan for Quest Link.

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Launch 2D apps in the room

With PTC Update 72, apps can be opened by simply dragging and dropping the icon into your space. Previously, you had to open them in a docked state, and only after that you could position them anywhere in your room.

Refreshed boot screen branding

Meta added the name of the operating system to the boot screen.

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A passthrough keyboard cutout with soft gradient

A dedicated Photo Gallery app

Meta is apparently working on a photo gallery app that is dedicated to viewing photos and images. So far, these are available in several interconnected Meta apps (Camera, Files).

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Smart storage

Luna found evidence of an optional feature called “Smart Storage”, which allows the system to automatically uninstall unused apps past a certain time threshold.

One more slot for pinned apps

In v72+ Meta may also add a 6th "pinned" app slot to the dock, Luna writes.

CONTEXT

What is the Public Test Channel?

The Public Test Channel (PTC) is an early access channel for advance access to upcoming Horizon OS updates. By signing up, you can get access to features before they officially roll out.

Note, however, that the software may be buggy or incomplete and slots are not automatically assigned. So you have to be lucky.

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You can find out how to sign up for the PTC in the official support article.

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